Guests at DMoC's annual fundraiser on October 9, 2025

By GINNY VAN ALYEA

During a lively and art-filled week in Chicago, the Design Museum of Chicago hosted Interwoven City, a spirited evening that brought together artists, designers, collectors and supporters for a night of connection and creativity. The benefit took place in the expansive Secrist | Beach space in West Town, where guests gathered among Jacqueline Surdell’s dynamic textile-based works, currently on view in the gallery.

The festive night was filled with art, food, signature cocktails, a DJ, silent-auction and conversation—all in support of DMoC’s mission to make design accessible to everyone. Thanks to the generosity of the community, the event raised an impressive $163,901, helping the museum stay free every day and continue to present thoughtful exhibitions and programs.

Tanner Woodford, founder and executive director of the Design Museum of Chicago, welcomes guests to the event.

Recently, DMoC also highlighted community collaboration through a special exhibition in its downtown gallery featuring work by artists from Arts of Life, a Chicago-area organization supporting artists with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The show underscored the museum’s ongoing commitment to showcasing inclusive and diverse creative voices.

Up next, DMoC is tapping into Chicago’s love of craft beer with Design on Draft: Breweries & Beyond, opening Thursday, October 23, 5–9 pm at 72 E Randolph St. The exhibition celebrates the artistry behind beer branding and how design shapes the way we experience what’s on tap.

Guests mingle with the backdrop of Jacqueline Surdell's monumental art

An immersive environment by interior designer Andee Hess / OSMOSE was on view at Secrist | Beach in their salon